Four Village Students Recognized as National Merit Semifinalists

Congratulations to Pavithr G., Vaani G. Divyesh K. and Leyah M. who are National Merit Semifinalists. 

The National Merit Scholarship Program is a United States academic scholarship competition for recognition and university scholarships. Each year's Preliminary SAT is the qualifying test for a student's entry to a particular year's competitions. Approximately 1.6 million students take the PSAT each year. Only 16,000 are named semi-finalists.

These seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $32 million that will be offered next spring. To be considered for a Merit Scholarship award, Semifinalists must fulfill several requirements to advance to the Finalist level of the competition. About 90 percent of the Semifinalists are expected to attain Finalist standing, and about half of the Finalists will win a National Merit Scholarship, earning the Merit Scholar® title. Learn more about this process here. 

When we had the opportunity to meet with them, each student reflected on their journey and choices that have helped shape the path that lies ahead of them. Divyesh K. vividly remembers being exposed to the world of science by his 2nd grade teacher, Mrs. Burton. His passion was developed in middle school by Mrs. Martin and Ms. Brivic, who encouraged him to enter science competitions so he could find innovative solutions to real-world problems. Divyesh plans to study material science so he can develop materials that have a massive impact on how we build buildings and create energy in the future. Pavithr G. credits Mr. Adams and Ms. Meyers who nurtured his passion for Quiz Bowl. His plan is to study biology and become a sports surgeon. Leyah M. wants to study economics so she can work for the UN or World Economic Forum. Her plan is to use economics as a way to address developmental issues such as access to healthcare. Vaani G., who will be studying environmental science in college, credits Ms. Spears who supported her all the way through high school. When we asked Vaani if she had any advice for current students, she said to “Try different things that interest you, work hard and don’t stress out too much.”